Rother boat race

The charity boat race has been organised by Mike Woolley in memory of his son Richard who lost his battle with Acute Myeloid Leukaemia in 2009

Mike, together with NHS Blood and Transplant, is calling on people to help others by taking part in the event at Rother Valley Country Park on Saturday 9th June.

The event which will see teams take to the water in Chinese dragon-themed boats, will raise funds for Leukaemia and Lymphoma research and the Anthony Nolan Trust.

As Richard’s treatment saw him receive many blood and platelet transfusions, NHSBT is also hoping that competitors will consider signing up as blood donors on the day.

Mike, who also gives blood regularly, said: “Without the goodwill of blood donors he would have had no hope at all.”

Existing blood donors are also particularly welcome to take part and perhaps set up their own team.

Anyone interested can enter as part of a team or as an individual and the team can be formed later to make up a crew.

Holly Mason, NHSBT’s lead donor relations manager for the South Yorkshire area, said: “The festival promises a fantastic day for competitors and spectators alike, with various stalls serving food and drink to celebrate your win or simply enjoy the day.”

“Come along and enrol as a blood donor and spend a day celebrating saving lives together.”

Anyone interested in taking part should visit www.richardwoolleyforgetmenot.co.uk.

Any blood donors wishing to form a team can email Holly via [email protected] for more information and sponsorship forms.